Deliver strategic advantage
ASD delivers strategic advantage for Australia by providing foreign signals intelligence that protects and advances Australia’s national interest. Foreign intelligence collection activities are guided by strategic priorities set by the Australian Government.
Lead cyber security
ASD is the Australian Government’s leading cyber security agency, and aims to make Australia the most secure place to connect online and to foster national cyber security resilience. ASD’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) monitors cyber threats targeting Australian interests, and provides advice and information, including through an international network of Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) to help protect Australians. When serious cyber incidents occur, ASD leads the Australian Government response to help mitigate the threat and strengthen defences.
Support military operations
ASD has a long history of supporting Australian military operations, with the organisation’s heritage dating back to the Second World War. Today, ASD supports Australian Defence Force (ADF) operations around the globe, including by providing intelligence and offensive cyber capabilities to enable the warfighter and protect ADF personnel and assets. ASD also draws on its deep technical expertise to help the ADF stay ahead of technology advancements in the region, including the introduction of 5th-generation weapons and cyber-warfare capabilities.
Counter cyber-enabled threats
ASD capabilities play an important role in countering cyber-enabled threats. The organisation protects Australia and Australians by preventing and disrupting offshore cyber-enabled crime, including the activities of organised criminal groups using malware to target Australians, and terrorists who use the internet to plan and incite attacks against Australian interests.
Provide trusted advice and expertise
ASD provides trusted advice and expertise to government, business and the community. ASD draws on its deep technical understanding of communications technology to help the Australian Government and the public understand the nature of the cyber threat environment, how they might be vulnerable and what they can do to protect themselves.